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Reforming Immigration

The United States is a nation of immigrants, and the League of Women Voters has a long history of encouraging their participation in American society. Immigrants have helped weave the fabric and identity of our nation, and we believe that it is critical for the U.S. to encourage their participation in our democracy. Our work around comprehensive immigration reform largely falls into the following categories:

Working for a path to citizenship– Rooted in the belief that our democracy is enhanced by a diversity of voices, the League believes that a path to citizenship, or provisions for unauthorized immigrants already living in the U.S. to earn legal status, will strengthen our nation and society. We believe that in order to become citizens, immigrants must learn about our system of government, understand the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and swear allegiance to the United States of America. These are basic steps to integration in American society, and it is in the interests of current citizens, immigrants and future generations that we build one nation. We have lobbied both the House and Senate for a path to citizenship, and we have lobbied in support of the DREAM Act, critical legislation that would enable immigrant youth to become fully productive members of American society.

Helping immigrants become active participants in our democracy – Voter education and voter registration are the foundation of the League’s work. We believe that the strongest democracy is one in which the voices of all participants are heard. As such, the League is committed to helping new citizens become active in American political life. We do this by providing civic education and registering tens of thousands of new voters at naturalization ceremonies in communities across the country.